I T I N E R A R Y | S H O R T H O P S
A happy couple smiles as they enjoy a gentle ride through the countryside .
Bell Point Trail Hikinng Loop Tucked beside the protected waters of Garrison Bay rests English Camp . An outpost established by the Royal British Marines , it is located on the northern end of San Juan Island . amriphoto
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT ELECTRIC BIKES Purists like to poo-poo the electric bike . But in fact , many a pedal enthusiast has found they enhance their riding experience .
In fact , hilly terrain and physical limitations , like knee pain or exercise-induced asthma , are some of the most common reasons folks forgo a pedal adventure . Yet the electric revolution is breathing new life into the outdoor sport that lets you explore solo or with a chosen group of friends .
E-bikes make pedaling easier , but they don ’ t typically eliminate it . The battery-powered assist uses a small motor to give you a little boost for things like summiting a hill . This means you ’ ll still get a workout when you ride an e-bike , you ’ ll just likely get to go farther and see more .
They only go so fast . The motors are governed , so when you hit a specific miles-per-hour ( typically between 20 and 28 mph ) it stops offering a propelled assist .
The battery only lasts for so many miles . This mileage is referred to as an e-bike ’ s ‘ range ,’ which can vary based on a variety of factors such as the speed at which you ’ re riding , your weight , and the terrain .
THE CAMP WAS PART OF a joint English-American occupation of the San Juan Islands . However , unlike the wind-swept American camp where soldiers shivered , English Camp ’ s treelined anchorage made it a veritable playground .
Today , many of the historic English Camp buildings remain . They can be easily accessed from the nearby parking lot . The interiors can be explored , depending on current access standards . ( Call ahead to inquire .)
Wandering north , past the military buildings and across the meadows and old orchard , you ’ ll find the Bell Point Trail . As the name would suggest , it takes you to the tip of Bell Point . Along the way , you ’ ll be treated to waterfront views of Guss Island , Horseshoe Bay , Westcott Bay .
The waters here tend to remain calm , making it a favorite anchoring spot for sailboats . The loop trail features a relatively flat terrain that runs predominantly through a mature forest of madronas , cedars , and junipers .
A favorite for bird watchers , keep an eye out for bald eagles , hairy woodpeckers , and barred owls . Upon returning to English Camp , consider capitalizing on the sprawling grounds for a picnic . Distance : 1.8 miles , round trip Elevation Gain : 62 ft . Route Type : Loop Dogs : Permitted on leash Difficulty : Easy to moderate Accessible : Year-round ( best April-Oct .) tomas neveselyphoto kenmoreair . com
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